Ball Bearing Casters Key Terms

Learn ball bearing casters key terms to make the right business decisions

If you are looking for equipment with ball bearing caster wheels, you should be familiar with ball bearing casters key terms to get the best products for your needs. You'll find you have a large selection of types and styles of ball bearing casters to choose from on today’s market. Once you understand the basic parts of a ball bearing caster, you can shop for a long-lasting product.

 

Ball bearings

Ball bearings use metal balls to keep the parts of the bearing separated. As the central ball rotates, the axial balls move as well. Ball bearings are relatively inexpensive to produce. They are incapable of carrying as much weight as other types of bearings.
Try: The Colson Caster Company provides ball bearing casters. The company's website has information about the ball bearings used in its products.

Race

Two round pieces of metal, called races, keep the bearings in place. They help to distribute the load placed on the ball bearings.
Try: For an in-depth explanation of how races expedite the work of ball bearings, read this article at HowStuffWorks.

Polyurethane wheels

Polyurethane wheels provide a smooth ride for the casters. Polyurethane is a non-marking material, so it's a good choice for carpet or treated flooring. It can stand up to some weight, but it's not ideal for extremely heavy products. You can order polyurethane wheels for casters in a variety of colors.
Try: See the selection of wheels for ball bearing casters available from Trew Industrial Wheels.

Forged steel wheels

For heavy duty use and use on concrete, forged steel wheels are a good choice. You can expect long life with this type of wheel on your ball bearing casters.
Try: See the forged steel wheel example at Drill Spot.

Hooded wheels

Hooded wheels on a ball bearing caster can add a decorative touch. They can also serve to protect the wheel. You often find this type of caster on furniture and lighter duty equipment. Most pieces of office furniture, including chairs, have hooded wheels.
Try: E.R. Wagner carries hooded wheels.

Transfer caster

A transfer caster is one large metal ball inside a metal sheathing. The large ball bearing makes direct contact with the flooring material. This type of ball bearing caster can hold a considerable amount of weight.
Try: Acme Caster Company offers a number of ball bearing transfer casters.

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